Due to the nature of my job, I have been fortunate enough to drive on the magnificent mountain roads of the Northwest, venture along the Central coastal roads with their white sandy beaches and blue seas, as well as explore the red dirt roads of the Central Highlands, where the sun and wind greet you…
However, I have often overlooked Cao Bang, saving it for a longer, more elaborate journey to this picturesque location. Luckily, just this October, THACO AUTO organized a BMW X-Venture expedition. This event attracted over 50 participants, including BMW owners, members of the BMW Car Club Vietnam, and potential customers. It was an opportunity for the participants to experience the superior performance, convenience, and safety of BMW X vehicles firsthand.
A Journey to the Border Region
Our journey began on a chilly autumn morning as we departed from Hanoi. By 5 a.m., a fleet of 24 BMW X vehicles, including X3, X4, X5, X6, and X7 models, were lined up outside the BMW Long Bien showroom. We eagerly awaited the team leader’s command to set off. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the urban area, we embarked on the BMW X-Venture expedition to Cao Bang, a region on the border.
There are several routes to travel from Hanoi to Cao Bang, but the two shortest and most convenient options are: the Hanoi – Thai Nguyen expressway, passing through Bac Kan before reaching Cao Bang; and the Hanoi – Bac Giang – Lang Son expressway, followed by a journey through That Khe to Cao Bang. We chose the first route in order to fully savor the beauty of the scenery along the way, regardless of the slightly longer distance.
Driving at a speed of 100km/h on the expressway, we could feel the engine’s power even more. Overtaking required a firmer press of the accelerator, unlike the smoothness at lower speeds. The X3 responded quickly and unexpectedly.
After the expressway, we passed through Bac Kan and triumphed over the majestic and poetic Windy Pass. The winding roads, with towering mountains on either side, were veiled in clouds. The trees, shedding their leaves at the end of autumn, prompted group members to exclaim, “It feels like we’re driving a BMW on European roads!”
Conquering Ma Phuc Pass
After enjoying a delectable meal in the mountain town of Cao Bang, we continued our expedition by conquering Ma Phuc Pass and the legendary Mat Than Mountain.
I had the privilege of driving the spotlight-stealing BMW X7. After covering around 20km from Cao Bang, between Tra Linh and Hoa An districts, we encountered Ma Phuc Pass. This pass is renowned as the most magnificent and beautiful pass in Cao Bang province. Spanning a length of 3.5km, it features a series of sharp bends.
Along the journey, we encountered towering mountains and winding curves, with steep slopes. This is where the xDrive 4-wheel drive system showcased its efficiency in the BMW X7, with its ability to adjust torque distribution among the wheels. On flat roads, the rear wheels required minimal assistance; however, on uphill sections, power was directed to the rear wheels, ensuring easy and smooth movement, with the engine RPM remaining optimal.
Upon reaching the mountain peak, we found a safe spot to stop, allowing us to gaze into the distance and marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Ma Phuc Pass. Conquering Ma Phuc Pass, admiring the panoramic natural beauty, and purchasing local specialties were among the thrilling experiences shared by the group.
Admiring Mat Than Mountain and “Check-in” at Ban Gioc Waterfall
For a comprehensive experience with the “BMW X” vehicles, I switched to driving the X5. This allowed me to navigate light off-road conditions on gravel roads, muddy grass, and damp soil along the mountains. With a ground clearance of 214mm and an air suspension system featuring adaptive mode, the X5 could raise the ground clearance by up to 40mm compared to the standard setting. At low speeds, the car automatically activated the surrounding cameras, enabling me to navigate the X5 effortlessly and accurately on narrow and rough roads.
After indulging in the beauty of Mat Than Mountain in Tra Linh district, we journeyed along a winding mountain route nestled amidst limestone cliffs to Trung Khanh. It is here that Ban Gioc Waterfall, a natural masterpiece of Cao Bang, is located. Situated near the Vietnam-China border, the Quay Son River leisurely meanders through lush rice fields before cascading from a height of approximately 40 meters. This gives rise to magnificent limestone steps, forming a curtain of foamy white water that bears a striking resemblance to delicate silk ribbons when viewed from afar.
Unforgettable Emotions
Cao Bang is undeniably beautiful, yet many regions still face various challenges. With this in mind, we planned from the outset to offer a heartfelt gift to the local people, hoping to alleviate some of their hardships. As a result, the entire group traveled to Tan Phong village in Phong Chau commune, Trung Khanh district. This village is classified as the poorest in the border district, with 21 out of 42 households officially recognized as impoverished. Furthermore, the village only obtained access to electricity last year.
We asked the locals about their most pressing needs. Due to their high-altitude residences, distant from water sources, they requested water pumps for daily use. In addition, they sought warm blankets to cope with the cold winter weather. The children required books, pens, paper, and study lamps. The meeting served as an opportunity for us to provide these simple gifts.
In jest, we remarked that the BMW X-Venture expedition exceeded mere travel. It was not simply an opportunity to experience the cars, but also a chance for participants to bond, engage in philanthropy, and contribute to the community.
The following day, we made our return to Hanoi, each individual carrying cherished memories of their personal voyage.
Anh Quan (forum.autodaily.vn)
BMW X-Venture Cao Bằng: Beyond a Journey
It was an emotionally charged journey filled with beautiful landscapes, winding roads, friendly locals, and exquisite cuisine in Cao Bang. What made it even more exceptional was the outstanding performance of the BMW X models.
